Ms. Binh experienced significant frustration with persistent red stretch marks. After gaining from 55 kg to nearly 75 kg in one year due to a metabolic disorder, she successfully returned to 58 kg through medication, diet, and exercise. However, the stretch marks remained as large bands. Various creams and cosmetic microneedling treatments offered no improvement.

Doctor of First Degree Specialization Nguyen Ngoc Tran, from the Department of Dermatology and Aesthetic Dermatology at Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, diagnosed Ms. Binh with moderate stretch marks caused by rapid weight gain. Stretch marks form when the body quickly increases in size, and the collagen and elastin fibers beneath the skin cannot adapt to the rapid stretching. This leads to the breakage and abnormal arrangement of these supportive fibers, creating characteristic marks on the skin's surface. While many people associate stretch marks with weight loss, they actually form earlier, becoming more prominent as subcutaneous fat decreases.

Ms. Binh's stretch marks, still red in some areas, indicated an early stage of damage, suggesting a better response to treatment than older, white marks. Therefore, Doctor Tran prescribed laser 6D therapy combined with skin regeneration products.

A doctor uses laser 6D to treat Ms. Binh's red stretch marks. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The laser 6D technology utilizes Er:YAG energy to target the dermis. This stimulates new collagen and elastin production, improving the structure of damaged skin. The long-pulse energy also enhances the color of the marks, reducing inflammation and redness.

Ms. Binh received guidance on proper skin care, maintaining a stable weight, and avoiding factors that could cause sudden skin stretching. After more than 4 months of treatment, the red stretch marks on her legs and buttocks began to shrink and fade in color. While not completely gone, the lesions require continued treatment for full structural improvement. Importantly, Ms. Binh reported a significant reduction in itching.

Doctor Tran explained that stretch marks affect not only pregnant women but also individuals experiencing substantial weight fluctuations or sudden changes in physical condition. Other risk factors include hormonal changes like puberty, Cushing's syndrome, or prolonged corticosteroid use. Research indicates that chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels, impacting collagen synthesis and weakening connective tissue, thereby increasing susceptibility to stretch marks.

While challenging to eliminate entirely, stretch marks can improve with appropriate, consistent treatment over time. Doctor Tran cautioned against advertisements promising "complete eradication after just a few sessions," advising patients to avoid wasted money and false hope. Treatment focuses on improving the color, depth, and area of the marks, not on their complete removal. Effectiveness varies based on the duration and severity of the damage, as well as individual response.

Patients should seek early medical evaluation if new red stretch marks appear or existing ones spread rapidly. A doctor can then examine the condition and develop a suitable treatment plan.

Minh Huong

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